I wouldn't recommend trying to run it on combustion (steam), but running it on low-pressure compressed air (to show the axle turning) should be possible, provided you can ensure the parts integrety in regards to the pressure... (compressed air is not something you should "play" with, especially as the engine is 70+ years old - originally designed and produced as a "one shot" mechanism).

Feel free to ask any question though - I'll do my best to answer :-)
(e-mail: bergen31@yahoo.com )